By Nur Ashikin Louis
KUCHING, May 16: The Sarawak Craft Council must implement transparent financial management practices to mitigate the risk of abuse, says Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong Wui Wui.
She said the practices include regular audits, financial reporting and proper documentation of financial transactions to ensure accountability and prevent the misuse of funds.
“Undoubtedly, legalising the Sarawak Craft Council as the authority for regulating and developing craft matters in Sarawak is the right step forward.
“However, it is equally important for the Sarawak government to ensure the Sarawak Craft Council is not subject to abuse and ensure the institution benefits all craft communities by implementing appropriate governance, transparency, and accountability measures,” she said when debating on Sarawak Craft Council Bill, 2023 at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today.
She also proposed other steps to avoid the risk of abuse, which include clearly defining the mission and objectives of the Sarawak Craft Council to provide a guiding framework for the Council’s activities and prevent misuse of resources as well as establishing a robust governance structure by appointing Council members who possess knowledge, experience, and commitment to the Council’s mission.
Other proposed steps include developing a Code of Conduct and Ethics that sets clear expectations for all staff, volunteers, and stakeholders and fostering regular engagement with stakeholders, including artisans, local communities, and the public.
Yong also called on the Council to provide capacity-building programmes and training opportunities to enhance the skills and knowledge of artisans within all craft communities.
“Lastly, to ensure fair resource allocation and prevent favouritism or bias among craft communities, it is essential for the Sarawak Craft Council to distribute resources, such as funding, infrastructure, and marketing opportunities, fairly and equitably based on the needs and potential of each community,” she added. — DayakDaily
